Lines, proportions, textures, and color solutions can visually elongate the figure, make the silhouette lighter, and add elegance to the look.
Sometimes, body features that seem like flaws can be easily mitigated with thoughtful fashion solutions — the key is to apply them consciously. Stylist Alina Lobanova shared effective fashion techniques that visually make the figure slimmer without the usual resort to total black.
Verticals, Diagonals, and Lines That Elongate the Silhouette
All elements that direct the gaze from top to bottom work towards visually elongating the figure. "Vertical seams, pleats on trousers, long rows of buttons, piping, slits, V-necklines, and wraps create a sense of height and airiness. Diagonals — for example, asymmetrical wraps, diagonal draping, or bags with long straps — also elongate and visually narrow the silhouette by shifting the focus away from horizontal lines," explains the expert.

Monochrome and Related Shades Instead of Sharp Contrasts
Outfits assembled in one color or in a close color palette create a cohesive vertical line and do not "break up" the figure. Light and medium shades look particularly advantageous: milk, beige, caramel, gray-blue, powdery, olive. The fewer noticeable color transitions between the top and bottom, the taller and slimmer the silhouette appears.
High Waist and Shifted Waistline
Skirts, trousers, and shorts with a high waist visually elongate the legs and create more harmonious proportions. "When paired with a cropped top or a tucked-in shirt, the effect of 'legs from the ears' and a gathered silhouette appears. A shifted waistline — slightly elevated or emphasized with a belt — helps structure the figure and adds slimness," recommends the stylist.

Competent Work with Volumes: Balance Instead of Total Oversize
Excessive volume from all sides can weigh down the look. A combination of one expressive voluminous element with more restrained pieces looks much more effective. For example, a wide jacket paired with straight trousers, a voluminous sweater with a pencil skirt, or a loose shirt combined with skinny jeans. Clearly defined proportions create a sense of lightness and neatness.
Fabrics, Textures, and Shoes That Make the Look Lighter
Matte, flowing, and moderately dense materials look visually lighter than stiff or overly shiny ones. Conversely, active gloss and dense knitwear can add unnecessary volume. Shoes matched to the color of trousers or tights elongate the line of the legs, while a pointed toe and open vamp enhance the effect of slimness. Even details like neat belts, elongated bag shapes, and minimalist jewelry contribute to a lighter and elongated silhouette.

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